Thanks to the support of businesses across the North East, the friends are well on the way to reaching their fundraising target of £8,000.

Catherine Marshall said: “We are so grateful for the support of businesses including the Cleveland Centre in Middlesbrough and The Newcastle Clinic who are our main sponsors, and the many other businesses who have donated gifts which will be auctioned on the evening.

“All funds raised will be donated to a Middlesbrough-based Barnardo’s project and we believe that our target is well within our reach.”

Debbie Anderson, centre manager for the Cleveland Centre, added: “We are really behind Nina, Catherine and David and think that they are doing a great job to support Barnardo’s North East. There are so many children, young people and families in need of support in the region and we are proud to support the ball.”

Companies region-wide are backing the ball by donating items to be auctioned on the evening including signed Manchester United and Middlesbrough FC shirts, a bridal make-up package and a book signed by the renowned photographer Joe Cornish.

Tickets for the Summer Ball cost £35 which includes a three-course meal and entertainment from The Beer Pigs. There will be fundraising activities on the night together with some surprises in store for guests.

Barnardo’s in the North East supports on around 23,360 children, young people and their families every year. All proceeds from the Summer Ball will be donated to a specific Barnardo’s project, based in Middlesbrough.

Businesses supporting the Summer Ball include:

Tyne & Wear

Newcastle Clinic –Newcastle Clinic have been instrumental in putting us in touch with the following:House of Hues Photography – providing photography services